Apply for Outside Scholarships
Outside scholarships are awards offered by organizations outside the University, such as local businesses, foundations, civic clubs, employers, and national scholarship programs.
These awards can help lower your college costs by providing extra funding for tuition, books, housing, and other expenses. They are a form of “gift aid,” meaning you do not have to repay the money if you earn the scholarship.
Scholarship Search Tools
Try these trusted resources to begin your search:
- Fastweb: Personalized scholarship matches based on your profile.
- Scholarships.com: A large searchable database of award opportunities.
- Appily: Filter scholarships by criteria like major, interests, and background.
- College Board BigFuture: National scholarship search tool.
How to Apply: From Search to Submission
To succeed in the "numbers game," you need a repeatable process. Follow these phases to streamline your applications.
Phase 1: The Prep Work
Before searching, build a “Scholarship Toolkit,” so you aren’t hunting for files every time a deadline approaches.
- Create a Dedicated Email: Use something professional like [email protected] to keep notifications out of your personal inbox.
- Gather “The Big Four” Documents:
- Digital Transcripts: Keep both official and unofficial PDFs ready.
- Updated Resume: Focus on leadership, volunteer hours, and specific skills.
- Letters of Recommendation: Ask 2–3 teachers or mentors now and store them in a “Reference” folder.
- Standard Personal Statement: Draft a 500-word “Master Essay” that covers your background and goals; you can tweak this for 80% of applications.
Phase 2: The Organization
Track your progress with a simple table or spreadsheet to avoid
missed deadlines.
Include columns for:
- Scholarship name
- Link to scholarship
- Deadline
- Requirements
- Status
Phase 3: The Application Sprint
- Batch Your Work: Set aside two hours every Sunday to apply for 2–3 scholarships.
- The “Show, Don’t Tell” Rule: In your essays, don’t just say you are a leader; describe a specific time you led a team through a challenge.
- Proofread via Audio: Read your essay out loud. If you stumble over a sentence, the scholarship committee will too.
Post Submission Tips & Tricks
- Confirm Receipt: Check your email for a confirmation code or status update.
- The “Thank You” Note: If you win, send a brief thank-you email or letter to the donor. This is often a requirement for the funds to be released.
- Track Renewals: Some scholarships are “renewable” (you get money every year). Set a calendar reminder for next year’s renewal date.
The Scholarship Proposal Letter
A “Proposal Letter” (sometimes called a Letter of Intent or Application Essay) is your chance to sell your “why.” It moves beyond your resume to explain your vision for both your education and your future beyond it.
Here are a few tips:
- Always address your letter to a specific person when possible
- Print and hand-sign your letters for a personal touch
- While you can send this to organizations or partners electronically, don’t forget to print copies and take them in person to local organizations and businesses, as these tend to be among the most “winnable” scholarships!
- Your letter should be clear and concise – keep it to a single page
What Happens After You Win a Scholarship
Receiving outside scholarships can enhance your financial support, though it may lead to adjustments in your overall aid package, such as loans or work-study amounts.
We encourage you to reach out to the Solutions Center before accepting an award to ensure you fully understand its impact on your aid.
Email [email protected] or call 434.544.8210.
